Animal World

Bichon Fris'e

ORIGIN: Tenerife
HEIGHT: 10-16 lb (23-30 cm)
WEIGHT: 10-16 lb (4.5-7.2 kg)
EXERCISE LEVEL: Low
COAT CARE: Brush coat twice a week
REGISTERED: KC, FCI, AKCs
COLORS: White

These playful dos have been popular companions for centuries, and make excellent family pets. The breeds fluffy appearance stems from it's distinctive double-layered silky coat.

BREED ORIGINS
It is thought that the Bichon fris'e is descended from the ancient European water spaniel called the Barbet. This is reflected by it's name, which is an abbreviated form of Barbichon, translating as "Little Barbet". The breed is also the Tenerife Dog, and the Bichon Tenerife, reflecting the fact that its development took place on this island, part of the Canaries group off the northwest coast of Africa. Its ancestors were probably introduced there from Spain over 500 years ago. They became highly sought-after pets at the royal courts of Europe, before gradually falling out of favor and ending up as cicus performers. the breeds name is pronounced "Beeshon Freezay".
SNOW WHITE The coat of this breed is naturally curly. It is trimmed back on the face, and this serves to emphasize the round, dark eyes.